Shaker Woods ~ Festival Articles

Fuentes: It’s “Crunchy Leaves Festival” Time

Born and raised in Coraopolis, Pa., Amber Fuentes currently resides in Denver, NC. She enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter and their dogs, as well as yard saling and antique shopping. Amber works in the veterinary field when she’s not creating stories of enchantment. By combining descriptive details with valuable lessons, her stories are engaging for all ages.

“I like to write stories where it prompts us to look beneath the surface of what’s in front of us,” Amber said. “I like to make the reader think, what if this was true? How fantastic would that be?”

Her book, “The Littlest Acorn,” takes place deep in the forest with the yearly Crunchy Leaves Festival approaching. With summer giving way to fall, autumn’s majestic change provides the perfect setting as the crunchy leaves begin to drift slowly from the trees and onto the ground. Shaker Woods is actually the setting Amber used as the backdrop, thanks to her many visits to the festival!

But the festival isn’t just special for the people of this small town; it’s also special for the animals that call this forest their home. Despite the daunting task of stocking up for the winter, the animals can hardly contain their excitement as they prepare for their own Crunchy Leaves Festival.

However, amid the excitement one little squirrel, Sophie, finds herself sad and lonely. Not feeling as pretty as the other squirrels, Sophie believes her tail isn’t as bushy, shiny and full as the others and that her big, falling down glasses alienate her from the group.

Fortunately, an owl named Sir Frederick James notices Sophie’s distress and swoops down to help, giving her a magic acorn to help her realize how important she is.

Amber Fuentes’ vivid imagery and rich illustrations place readers so deep into the middle of the festival, they can almost feel the leaves crunching beneath their feet.

“I want to make the reader feel like they’re part of the book,” Amber said. “I want them to be able to relate to not only the character, but also different elements of the story. I want them to understand and appreciate the importance of self-worth and kindness. Perhaps you relate to Sophie or maybe you’ll seize the opportunity and make a difference like Sir Frederick James; either way we all can relate in some way.”

Amber’s book is available through Barnes and Noble, Archway Publishing and Amazon. She travels for book presentations and personalization events. Visit her at the Shaker Woods Schoolhouse from 11 a.m. to Noon, 1 to 2 p.m. and 3 to 4 p.m each day for a personalized copy!